Dr. Michael J. Kudlas

Michael died peacefully at home. He was born in Detroit, MI on December 14, 1948 the son of Julian Michael and Arelene (Lockhart) Kudlas.  Through his practice Kalamazoo Community Chiropractic, PC he served multigenerational patients throughout the region. He was a long time member and ordained minister of MSIA (Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness) and founding member of a forerunner of MAC (Michigan Association of Chiropractors).  Surviving besides his mother are beloved life partner Dr. Janet Graham; beloved sons Lt. Col USAF Devin (Misty) Kudlas of Huntsville AL, Bradley Kudlas of Dawsonville GA, MSgt USAF Mark (Amanda) Kudlas, of Cookstown NJ and son of the heart Jude (Jen Schneeweis) LaRene of Seattle WA; brother Paul Hill; grandchildren Kaia, Zoe, Jackson, Brooklyn, Aidan, Brenna, Carsyn, Katelyn, Christopher, Brynlee, Isaiah, and Mira; niece Patty Stephan with Bryan and Brianna and nephew Jim Hill with Julie Clayton. Predeceased by his father, numerous aunts and uncles and sister-in-law Patricia Hill, RN. Based on his life experience, his Lithuanian grandfather exhorted Michael to “Get an education! Nobody can take that away from you.” Michael took that advice to heart and was a poster boy for lifelong learning. He graduated from Cody High School in Detroit where he excelled in baseball, basketball and music (flute, oboe and conducting) then continued to Wayne State University for his teaching degree and Masters in Physical Education. After teaching and designing curriculum for 10 years in Detroit Public Schools, his family experienced the healing power of chiropractic care and, encouraged by Michigan legend Clair O’Dell, DC, Michael moved the family to Spartanburg SC and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Sherman College. He cherished opportunities to learn from chiropractic masters who were evolving new healing techniques and studied NET with Drs. Scott and Deb Walker, TBM with Dr. Victor Frank, NOT with Dr. Carl Ferrari, AK with Drs. Goodheart and Schmidt, and also attended and often taught seminars around the world. He was constantly searching for ways to help his patients and said that he took his entire patient base with him to every training. With that purpose he earned a masters in counseling psychology from University of Santa Monica, completed pre-treatise doctoral work at Peace Theological Seminary, and constantly expanded his knowledge of essential oils. For several years he hosted his weekly radio show Speaking of Health and had wonderful conversations with healers from many fields. He also maintained his interest in martial arts long after he earned his black belt. He was a voracious reader, movie buff, exuberant cook and lifelong Detroit Red Wings and Tigers fan. He lived a full rich multidimensional life. Recently he was asked, “Of all the resources you have in your healers toolbox, what’s the one you consider to be essential?” Michael’s response says it all. “Love. I love my work. I love my patients. I never want to retire. I want to work until the day I die.”  That wish was granted. If you would like to make a memorial contribution, some of Dr. Kudlas’ favorites are: Camp Beechpoint, Ministry with Community Sponsor a Meal, Open Doors and all-time favorite VOLUNTEER for something you love. As of now, a celebration of life is scheduled for September 23 in the Kalamazoo Community Chiropractic Office Lot. More details to come.